Yuvachun: A cultural bridge between Cambodia and France through artistic initiatives and solidarity events.
Founded in 2019 in Paris by Kaliane Tea (president) and Angkeara Svay (vice-president) , the Yuvachun Cambodian Association's mission is to promote Cambodian culture while creating links between young Cambodians living in France and those from Cambodia. The association also supports the integration of Cambodian students and young professionals living in France. In 2023, a branch was opened in Phnom Penh to strengthen exchanges between these two communities.
David Sou , president of the French branch of Yuvachun and one of the co-founders of TEVOA , and Yannick Rithy Romer , vice-president of the French branch, lead local initiatives in France, ensuring that the association remains a pillar for the Cambodian diaspora.
Promoting Cambodian Culture
Yuvachun is dedicated to spreading Khmer culture through the organization of traditional events such as Khmer New Year and Bon Om Touk (the water festival), as well as workshops and shows, which highlight Cambodian artistic richness. One of the notable events was the contemporary dance show with the Twins Provost and the artist Adana Mam Legros at the Maison du Cambodge , as part of the event "Je suis Métisse".
Dance and Art at the Heart of Yuvachun's Activities
The association promotes traditional Cambodian dance with performances such as Tep Monorom , performed at an event at the Maison du Cambodge. These shows, in addition to short film screenings, illustrate Yuvachun's commitment to Cambodian cultural heritage.
Strengthening Franco-Cambodian Ties
Yuvachun also plays a crucial role in facilitating trade between Cambodia and France. In collaboration with the Ambassador of Cambodia to France , David Luy , the association has organized several events to strengthen bilateral relations. It has also participated in official meetings, such as during a Cambodian ministerial delegation to France, demonstrating its diplomatic involvement.
Events to Strengthen the Community
The association organizes various events to bring together the Cambodian, Asian and other diasporas and associations, such as barbecues , Yuvachun evenings , and traditional celebrations. These events provide an opportunity for participants to meet in a friendly atmosphere and strengthen ties within the community.
Yuvachun also represented Cambodia at the 1st edition of Met et des Mots in Villers-Cotterêts, promoting Cambodian culture on the international stage.
Welcoming Cambodian Students
One of Yuvachun's key roles is to provide practical support to Cambodian students coming to study in France. Through partnerships with institutions such as the Maison du Cambodge at the Cité universitaire de Paris, the association helps these young people integrate by providing them with advice and resources to succeed in their academic journey and their professional integration.
A Dedicated Team
Under the direction of Kaliane Tea (President) and Angkeara Svay (Vice President) , David Sou (President of the French branch) and Yannick Rithy Romer (Vice President of the French branch), the Yuvachun team remains very active in Paris as well as in Phnom Penh, developing initiatives for a continuous strengthening of the links between young Cambodians and their culture. The association was recently highlighted in an interview with Le Petit Journal , where the management team shared their future projects and their ambition to grow this international community.
Conclusion
The Yuvachun Cambodian Association is a key player in promoting Khmer culture and supporting young Cambodians in France and Cambodia. By actively participating in cultural, artistic and diplomatic events, Yuvachun plays a central role in creating a close-knit community, proud of its heritage and ready to face the challenges of tomorrow.
